Page 10 of Her Fearless Ronin

As I turned to leave, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions. The unresolved tension between us left a lingering heaviness in the air, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that much was left unsaid.

But for now, focusing on finding her brother was the priority.

Chapter 4

Jiro

Things didn’t turn out at all like I had planned. Visiting Anna’s grave was supposed to be just a quick stop, a personal introspection, one of the many ghosts I wanted to face and try to exorcise.

And then there was Hope… The proverbial hopeshowed up in the shape of probably the most beautiful girl I had ever seen and the only girl I could never have.

But I could help her, make her life a little better. I had the power to do that, and I wanted to, even if it was the last thing I did.

This was why I was now in a hotel room by the airport instead of being on my way to the next step of my trip.

Where were you going, anyway?The insidious, mocking voice of my conscience asked. I didn’t know. I had known nothing except getting on my bike and driving away from Hoka and his new happiness, knowing that my presence would cause him far more trouble than necessary.

I stepped out of the bathroom after my shower and looked at the golden coin that rested beside my phone on the night table.

The internal conflict raged within me as I weighed the options. On the one hand, I could handle the situation on my own, ensuring Hope’s safety and sparing her from the dark and dangerous world I suspected her brother was involved in. It would be quicker and more efficient, allowing me to provide her with the answers she sought without putting her at risk.

On the other hand, the thought of her being disappointed, angry, or betrayed by my actions pained me deeply. The idea of leaving her looking at me with any negative emotions was infuriating and unbearable.

I sighed, tightened my wet hair into a bun, and called Hoka.

“Brother, how is the ‘introspection tour’ treating you?”

I rolled my eyes. “How’s fatherhood treating you?”

He sighed in contentment. “Honestly? It’s the best thing in the world. I wake up every morning, and I almost can’t believe it’s all real, and then I go see Yuko and…” He sighed again. “I’m so blessed.”

I nodded as guilt crept up again. I almost robbed him of this bliss, all because of my past. I knew he and Violet forgave me despite me being undeserving.

“How is Violet?”

Hoka chuckled. “Violet is a warrior. She is already up and running like she didn’t just have a baby. Let me tell you, I will never understand why women are seen as weak. They can take us any day of the week.”

I couldn’t help but smile, thinking about how Hope stood in my way, ready to fight despite knowing who I used to be.

“I could not agree more.”

“What do you need?”

“Why do you say I need something? I may just be calling to check on you.”

“You may…” he conceded. “But knowing I saw you less than a week ago, I’m sure there’s more.”

I sighed, deciding to get straight to the point. “I need to get into one of Doyle’s Wonderland clubs.”

Hoka whistled between his teeth. “I know you’re kinky with the weird piercing you have, but I’m sure you can find whatever you need in any other club. Benetti said something about the Refectory or something in New York.”

“I’m still on the West Coast, and I need to get into this one. It’s complicated.” Boy, was it complicated.

“Which one?”

“Seattle.”

“Seattle…” he trailed off, and I knew it would not take him long to make the connection. “Why are you in Seattle, Jiro?”

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